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Where to stargaze around Winston-Salem

Prepare to see fast meteors which last for several seconds to minutes travel across the sky this month of October.

WStoday: Purple sky shows off Northern Lights around Winston-Salem

Views of the Northern Lights from Bashavia Gardens which made an appearance the night of Saturday, Oct. 12.

Photo courtesy of @bashaviagardens

Twinkle, twinkle little star... born to shine among the sky, full of wonder there you are.

City editor Kellina here. Before I get carried away into the starry night of poetry, you won’t want to miss this. One of the most beautiful meteor showers of the year will make an appearance Sunday, Oct. 20 and Monday, Oct. 21.

You can watch orionids after midnight until just before dawn in the morning. While your abilities to see these fast meteors depends on how clear the skies are, here are three places to stargaze around the Twin City.

Pro tip: While you don’t need anything to stargaze, binoculars or a telescope can help you see stars much closer.

Tanglewood Park camping ground

Reserve a spot at the RV campground and enjoy plenty of amenities during your stay including a fire pit. Cozy blankets, camp chairs, and starry nights. What more do we need?

Hanging Rock State Park

Enjoy the scenic views and the peaceful sound of nature which offers an open view of the sky from the campsite. The family campground accommodates up to six people per site.

Your backyard

There’s no better place than home. This works best if you live away from bright city lights and in the suburbs as NASA experts say lights from urban areas create light pollution that washes out the sky. So, pull out those blankies and create your own campsite for the best viewing experience.

Stay stellar

Use this interactive sky chart to help familiarize yourself with what you’ll be able to see in the sky. Download the Star Chart app for your Apple or Android product to help identify what you’re looking at while gazing.

Do you have a favorite place to go stargazing? Share your special spot with us.

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